Student reviews
We would like to introduce the impressions of those who received scholarships from Ballet Connection and went abroad to study!
We received real testimonials from people who have actually experienced this!
Novosibirsk Ballet School / Russia
S.I., Female, Age 18 (at the time of study abroad), Studied abroad for 3 years
Impressions of lessons at the study abroad destination (by the student)
I've been placed in a class with Russian instructors, and I'm learning the fundamentals of the Vaganova method thoroughly. When I took my first lesson, I realized just how naive my understanding of my own positions was . Even now, in my third year, I'm still able to re-examine my shortcomings and improve techniques that had become merely superficial, starting from the basics .
Furthermore, you can learn not only the techniques and fundamentals necessary for the stage, but also presentation and emotional expression directly from instructors who have been active in the theater or are currently active in the field. These are invaluable lessons where you can experience authentic expression with your whole body , as the instructors demonstrate not only through words but also through their actual movements .
I'm also taking character dance classes, which are not commonly taught in Japan. I didn't really think about it much when I was in Japan, but since coming to Russia, I feel that this class is essential to me; I don't think I could perform on stage without it .
In my duet class, we learn the basics carefully, and now we're even tackling more advanced techniques. Sometimes I worry whether I'll ever reach this level of technique, but the teachers are so dedicated and supportive, which is very encouraging .
All of my teachers and classmates have warmly welcomed us international students, and every day is a valuable experience .
Your thoughts on life abroad (yourself)
Of course, living together brings up a variety of emotions. However, I believe that these are all part of the ballet study abroad experience, a place to grow both mentally and physically, and an important experience for becoming an independent dancer .
The time outside of lessons is precious time for self-reflection. Because I have classmates who are working hard towards the same goal, I can share the hardships, joys, and frustrations with them . Living in the dormitory, I can concentrate on my studies in the best possible condition thanks to the warm support of the dorm mother. She takes each of us international students seriously, so it is an environment where I can work on what I want to do with peace of mind .
The townscape is wonderful, and since there's a theater right in front, I can easily enjoy not only lessons but also theater performances, which is very educational .
Other thoughts or feelings regarding your trip
When I decided to study in Russia, I had some anxieties, but now that I've finished my second year and started my third, I am truly grateful for this environment where I can learn the Vaganova method from the basics, and for the many people who have supported me.
I am extremely grateful for the consistently thorough support I have received regarding school-related troubles and worries, job hunting, and even my future career path after studying abroad.
Even in situations where it's difficult to immediately ask for help while studying abroad, and where I have to solve problems on my own, I can always consult with them from the student's perspective, so I can concentrate on ballet with peace of mind. (Student)
I had many concerns about studying at a ballet school in Russia, including potential conflicts, and I consulted with you many times before making a decision.
After receiving answers to many questions about the experiences of students actually studying abroad, the local situation, and the school environment, and discussing the risks and opportunities as a family, we decided to pursue our child's study abroad. (Parent)
Comments from parents about Ballet Connection support
From before I decided to study abroad until now, the staff at the administrative office have been very polite and helpful.
Over the past two years, I've consulted with them on a variety of issues, including submissions to Japanese high schools, problems with Russian banks, concerns about dormitory life, and job hunting, and they've always responded to each one with care and attention. They also maintain close communication with the school and clearly convey the school's perspective, so I feel confident entrusting my daughter to them.
My daughter also has great trust in the person in charge, and we are very grateful for this connection.
I have one year left of my study abroad program, so I would appreciate your continued support.
Queensland Ballet School/Australia
T.Y., male, 12 years old (age at time of study abroad), Spring Holiday Program
Feedback on lessons during study abroad (from the student)
It was a very valuable experience to be able to teach the same lessons as the current students in a bright and open studio .
Also, my homeroom teacher taught me very carefully.
I listened to the instructions the teacher gave to others, and the next time I was being watched, I danced while being very conscious of those instructions .
Then the teacher repeatedly said "Exactly," and praised me, saying, "You've corrected exactly what I told you to!" I was very happy .
I had always heard from my ballet teacher about the importance of correcting any mistakes on the spot, so I was able to put that into practice .
The lessons didn't focus on forcing high leg lifts or lots of spins; instead, they seemed to emphasize dancing in the correct position . Watching the current students in class, I saw them concentrating intently, carefully searching for the correct body position, which was very helpful .
Through this study abroad experience, I was able to carefully listen to all the feedback I received, even if it was directed at others, and I realized the importance of correcting my mistakes on the spot and that dancing with the correct body position is the most important thing .
There were also classes where we wore pointe shoes, and the teacher choreographed a dance for us, which we then performed on the spot. During that time, we were able to dance in teams of about three with other students, and the teacher gave us guidance on how to make our expressions look better. I realized the importance of eye contact and the direction of our faces, as well as the difficulty of having to dance in sync with two other people on the spot .
Looking ahead, I realized I need to study English more in order to deepen my understanding of ballet.
Impressions of life while studying abroad (from the student)
It was a cold, snowy season, but the dormitory was warm and comfortable.
I had the opportunity to talk with current students, who explained the school and introduced me to other students. We even went shopping together. It was a very enjoyable experience of cross-cultural communication, and I learned a lot outside of lessons .
The meals at the dormitory were delicious, and there were snack times with yogurt and other treats between lessons. It helped me recover my energy and was a good way to refresh myself.
Other thoughts or feelings regarding your trip (from the individual)
It was my first time traveling abroad alone, and I was anxious, but someone from my school was waiting for me at the Canadian airport, and they were so kind and helpful, which put me at ease. They even accompanied me to the airport when I returned home.
Feedback from parents regarding Ballet Connection support
I am truly grateful to everyone at Ballet Connection for their support from start to finish.
The National Ballet School of Canada is a very well-established school, so even though it was a short-term study abroad program, there was a lot of preparation to be done in advance for my daughter's admission, and without the help of Ballet Connection, my daughter's study abroad would have been impossible.
They also translated a vast amount of documents, including school announcements and dormitory rules. Furthermore, their timely and detailed instructions regarding various scenarios were extremely helpful.
Furthermore, Canada has strict rules regarding unaccompanied minors, so we consulted with you many times regarding eTA registration and the preparation of a minor's travel consent form (document preparation by a notary public), and we were finally able to successfully facilitate my daughter's unaccompanied travel.
I am incredibly grateful for you handling these arduous procedures on my behalf and for your kind and attentive support.
If my daughter ever has the opportunity to study abroad for an extended period, I would like to ask Ballet Connection for their help again. Thank you so much!
Queensland Ballet School/Australia
T.Y., male, 12 years old (age at time of study abroad), Spring Holiday Program
Feedback on lessons during study abroad (from the student)
I was the only Japanese person and the only male dancer in the Swan Lake repertoire, which meant I got four days of one-on-one lessons. At first, we only practiced the male variation of the pas de trois, but then I was asked to try the scene where the prince dances while searching for Odette. It was my first time playing the prince, and I was challenged to act, which was very fulfilling.
I was so happy to hear that the director of QBA came to watch the final repertoire performance and told my host mother, who was also there, "If he wants to study at this school, I'll support him. Let's get him ready to become a principal dancer here!"
After that, I also participated in the academy's Level 4 class lessons for five days.
The Level 4 class only had one older boy, a 14-year-old, so it was just the two of us for the lesson.
The content was strict; every movement was corrected, and even the slightest lapse in concentration would result in a reprimand from the teacher, so it required a lot of concentration.
My only classmate was very cheerful and fun, and we had some things in common, so even with just the two of us, the class atmosphere was bright.
I had two or three classes a day, so I took a contemporary dance class and also experienced gym workouts using equipment for the first time. I learned about different physical sensations than those I experience in ballet lessons, such as lifting weights and practicing jumps on a trampoline while lying down.
Perhaps because the instructor was a fan of Western music, upbeat Western music was playing in the gym, which made working out really enjoyable.
During my time at QBA, I was able to have a teacher almost constantly supervising my lessons, and I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful for that.
Impressions of life while studying abroad (from the student)
My host family for this trip consisted of a Japanese mother and her two daughters (the younger sister was the same age as me). The host mother was cheerful and very kind, and the food she cooked was delicious every day.
Initially, I was supposed to get to QBA by taking the train and bus on my own after being given directions.
However, it was spring break so the number of trains had decreased, and when I went there once with my host mother, there were no announcements on the bus so I had to remember the scenery and get off on my own, and the road from the bus stop to the school wasn't safe for elementary school children, so she agreed to drive me to and from school every day.
I was always so tired on the way home that I would fall fast asleep in the car. If I had been commuting by myself, I wouldn't have been able to do that, and I might have even missed my stop because I was sleeping so soundly.
So, I think my host mother must have had a really tough time every day, but I always thought, "Thank you so much!"
After the repertoire was over, I had a day off, and I went to an amusement park in the Gold Coast with my host family. It was so much fun to ride the attractions and see kangaroos scratching their bellies and koalas eating eucalyptus leaves!
Other comments, such as your feelings about traveling abroad (from the individual)
When I heard that only one person wanted to study abroad this time, I told my parents that it was okay if I was the only one because I wanted to go.
About a week before departure, I felt a little nervous thinking, "I'm leaving soon!", but the excitement outweighed the nervousness.
Even so, it was my first time on a plane, traveling abroad, and traveling alone, so I was completely frozen on the flight there (laughs), but on the way back I watched three movies and listened to a lot of music.
Those 12 days really flew by.
I hope to one day study at a ballet school abroad for an extended period, but having had this experience studying abroad has made me realize that I want to work hard in Japan a little longer before I can go.
Feedback from parents regarding Ballet Connection support
Sending a primary school student abroad alone brought with it far more worries and anxieties than I had imagined.
I always had negative thoughts, wondering if they would actually come back to us, and I really understood how parents feel when they send their children abroad to study ballet.
This study abroad experience truly wouldn't have allowed me to move forward even a single step without the support of the BC office.
From obtaining the visa and preparing the necessary documents, to handling administrative matters with the ballet school, to finding a host family and communicating the details, the list of things to do is endless. I believe I was able to muster the courage to go through with this process because they understood my anxieties as a parent, supported me with genuine care, and warmly answered even the smallest questions.
I'm so glad that I was able to fulfill his wish to go there, and I've learned that children are more responsible outside the home than their parents might think.
I learned a lot from experiencing a situation where I was completely helpless as a parent.
I would definitely like to use the BC Secretariat's services again if the opportunity arises.
Thank you so much.
Tallinn International Ballet/Estonia
H.K., female, 9 years old (age at time of study abroad), Summer Intensive Primary Course
Impressions of lessons at the study abroad destination (by the student)
I participated in three weeks of the four-week summer school.
Lessons started at 9:15 in the morning and ended at 4:00 on some days and 6:00 on others. After the divided class lessons, there was storytelling, Pilates, and the final play rehearsal of the summer school.
It was difficult because I didn't understand the language, but I tried to think back to my regular lessons and think about what I was being told to do.
When I was in trouble, other members of my class and Japanese ladies helped me out during joint lessons.
During breaks, we taught each other languages and had arm wrestling, and had a lot of fun.
I'm not good at Pilates and it was difficult, but I was more than happy and enjoyed being able to take lessons all day.
During the rehearsal lesson towards the end of the summer school, it was difficult to learn and dance new choreography in a short amount of time, but it was fun as I was able to watch the older students' lessons while waiting and had many new experiences.
Although there were some mistakes on stage, it was a lot of fun.
I would like to learn the language and improve my ballet skills so that I can take on the challenge again for the full period.
Your thoughts on life abroad (yourself)
My host family was very kind to me.
The meals prepared for us were easy to eat for breakfast and dinner, and I looked forward to every meal. I loved the zucchini pancakes that the mother made.
The summer climate in Estonia was more comfortable than in Japan.
During the first week, I would come home tired and fall asleep immediately after eating and showering.
After the second week, I got used to it a bit, and in my free time, I was taken to old towns, the beach, parks, and shopping.
Although my life was different from Japan, my host family spoke Japanese and talked to me a lot. They were very kind and I had a lot of fun every day without any worries or problems.
Other feelings about traveling abroad
(The person in question)
I had always dreamed of studying abroad in a ballet school where I could spend a whole day learning ballet, and it seemed like there were many classes other than classical, so I was really looking forward to studying abroad.
(Parent)
I was worried that it might be a reckless challenge, as he would be traveling alone for a long period of time, but I respected his strong will and sent him off prepared for him to return to his home country halfway through.
Above all, they were able to arrange a reliable homestay for me, which helped me decide to send my child off.
What people are saying about Ballet Connection Support
(Parent)
I would like to express my gratitude for the generous support I received, which made my study abroad experience possible.
I was able to leave it to them to handle the necessary procedures for travel and studying abroad, as they simply instructed me on the necessary matters.
During my study abroad, the local director and my homestay kept in contact with me and updated me on what was happening there. My host family also took excellent care of me, arranging immigration, transporting me to and from school, and managing my schedule, so I was able to keep an eye on them with peace of mind.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for giving me this opportunity and for the support I received in many areas where I was lacking as a parent.
Ellison Ballet/USA
H.K., female, 20 years old (age at time of study abroad), Premier Coaching Intensive (Los Angeles)
Currently studying abroad on a yearly scholarship from the summer intensive course
Impressions of lessons at the study abroad destination
We offer class lessons, pointe classes, pas de deux classes, and contemporary dance from Monday to Friday from 10:30 to 16:30, and on weekends we receive private instruction or rent a studio for self-study.
Currently, I am busy with rehearsals for the winter showcase in December and a guest appearance, but I am having a very fulfilling time.
Impressions of life abroad
I live alone in an apartment share house, and even when I'm tired, I try to eat a balanced diet.
At school, I work hard at my lessons while competing with other students who share the same goals. On weekends, I refresh myself by going for morning runs with friends, or going on picnics and events.
Other feelings about traveling abroad
I was leaving for the US about two months after my short-term study abroad, and before I knew it, there were competitions and recitals scheduled during that time, so the day of departure came around. I was a little nervous, as I received a lot of encouragement from everyone at the studio, but I was more than happy to be able to study at the school I wanted.
What people are saying about Ballet Connection Support
During my short-term study abroad, they provided me with detailed information and took care of me in many ways, so I was able to focus on my lessons without any problems during my time there. As a result, I was able to receive a year's scholarship, and I am grateful that it was all thanks to Ballet Connection's support. Thank you very much.
Ellison Ballet/USA
K.C., female, 12 years old (age at time of study abroad), Classical Variations Intensive (New York)
Impressions of lessons at the study abroad destination (by the student)
Mr. J's classes were very friendly and cheerful, and I enjoyed the lessons. At first, I struggled with balance, but by the time I returned to Japan, I was able to stop perfectly! When I took a variation lesson with Mr. Ellison, he carefully instructed me on the position of the kuppe.
It was a very fulfilling lesson and I had a lot of fun!!
Your thoughts on life abroad (yourself)
Studying abroad was a bit tough. I had to cook almost everything myself, so I had to get up early. My American roommate was super cute and fun! She often cooked breakfast for me (^O^) (She even brought her own microwave!) The Japanese ladies who came with me accompanied me on shopping trips, cooked dinner for me, and ate with me in the lounge. We were in different rooms, which was inconvenient at times, but they were all very kind to me!
Other feelings about the trip (person)
On the first day, I was sad to be away from my parents and sister, so I went to sleep with the LINE phone still plugged in. But thanks to the fulfilling lessons, the many times Professor Ellison spoke to me, and the many foreign friends I made there, I was able to return home feeling physically and mentally stronger than when I left!
Comments from parents about Ballet Connection support
The person in charge at Ballet Connection was very kind and accommodating.
Before we left, we were worried because we didn't have much information about life there, so we would like you to share our impressions and experiences with future ballerinas who will be studying abroad.
Ellison Ballet/USA
E.H., female, 17 years old (age at time of study abroad), Classical Variations Intensive (New York)
Impressions of lessons at the study abroad destination (by the student)
It was my first time studying abroad, so I was very nervous just entering the studio on the first day. I was very happy to be able to dance in a studio with a high ceiling, large mirrors, and a beautiful view from the windows.
We were the only participants from outside of English-speaking countries, so we sometimes had difficulty understanding the language, but it was a truly luxurious experience to be taught classical ballet lessons and variations for five hours every day.
In the variations class, we were taught the famous Va from Act 1 of Aurora Sleeping, Va from The Pirate's Garden, the solo part of the Vili from Giselle, which is not usually danced in competitions, Va 2 from Paquita, Va from The Jewel Sleeping, Va 2 from The Shadow of La Bayadère, etc. For each dance, we were taught not only the choreography but also carefully how to express ourselves in each scene, so over the two weeks we studied and practiced many expressions that suited each role.
On the final day, there was a presentation for parents, and the center was divided into small groups and each group took turns performing. During the variation presentation, I also had the opportunity to dance two solo songs.
After the lesson, the teacher in charge of the class and the parents of the other children who came to watch praised my dancing, which made me very happy.
Your thoughts on life abroad (yourself)
The dormitory was located in a quiet residential area about 30 minutes from the studio, and I took the subway to get to the studio.
There was a large supermarket about a 10-minute walk from the dormitory, where I was able to quickly get everything I needed.
My dorm room had a stove and running water, so I cooked all three meals myself and learned how difficult it is to cook for myself.
There was a 13-hour time difference, and the day and night schedules were the complete opposite of those in Japan, which was also difficult.
Since there were no lessons on Saturday and Sunday, I was able to have fun going to see a Broadway musical and shopping.
Other feelings about the trip (person)
As this was my first time studying abroad, I was feeling anxious and worried about causing trouble for the people I was with, but everyone was very kind to me and I was able to enjoy the two weeks.
I was so grateful to receive the scholarship to study abroad.
As this was my first time studying abroad, I was worried about the procedures and life abroad.
It was reassuring to find out that the three of us would be going together on the same scholarship.
Comments from parents about Ballet Connection support
I was very grateful that they responded immediately to any issues I had at the airport over the phone, and I was able to communicate with the local staff and travel safely.
Thanks to the arrangements they made to put us in contact with the parents of children traveling on the same scholarship, we were able to smoothly prepare things in advance (ballet equipment, daily necessities, suitcases, children's cards, pocket Wi-Fi, etc.) and complete procedures on the day of travel, which was very helpful.
They provided me with a wide range of detailed support, including arranging accommodation at my study abroad destination (dormitories affiliated with the school), applying for a passport, purchasing plane tickets, introducing overseas payment methods using Wise (tuition, rent, etc.), arranging things like going to the ballet at my study abroad destination, and providing guidance on how to apply for ESTA, and I am extremely grateful for their courteous and easy-to-understand responses via email and phone whenever I had questions or problems.
Thanks to you, my child was able to successfully complete his first study abroad experience, and both he and his parents were able to gain valuable experience. We hope to continue to receive your support in the future if the opportunity arises.
Ellison Ballet/USA
H.T., female, 16 years old (age at time of study abroad), Classical Variations Intensive (New York)
Impressions of lessons at the study abroad destination (by the student)
I was able to learn a lot of different variations.
The balance was strengthened.
Strengthening the basics of how to use sound.
He not only looked at technique, but also at the expressions and facial expressions conveyed by the choreography, and how the sounds were captured, carefully observing each individual's variations and giving feedback.
Your thoughts on life abroad (yourself)
The dorm mother welcomed me in a friendly manner and took good care of me.
On the first day, when I had to change classrooms, they accompanied me to and from the classroom, which made me feel at ease.
When there was a problem with the dormitory facilities , they responded immediately.
They checked my health and well-being during roll call before bed.
They accompanied me to the airport both on the way there and back, so I was able to travel with peace of mind.
They recommended nearby supermarkets and cafes, so we were able to buy our own food locally.
Other feelings about the trip (person)
As this was my first time studying abroad, I was quite anxious, but I was able to easily ask questions about even minor matters such as how to fill out paperwork, and responses were quick.
When I told them I was worried about my English, they arranged for me to take English conversation lessons and provided language support.
Comments from parents about Ballet Connection support
My daughter had several chances to study abroad in the past, but it never came to fruition, so I'm very happy that with your support, it finally came to fruition. I was confused by the procedures and arrangements I was going through for the first time, and there were many times when things didn't go smoothly, but you communicated with me multiple times each time. I was relieved when we were able to send her off safely, and I think she was able to spend her time there with peace of mind because we also had good communication with the dorm mother after she left. Both my daughter and I were able to take a step that we had been hesitant to take, and although it was difficult, it was a great experience.
My daughter had some minor injuries and other issues during her study abroad. By referring to the staff's experiences, I think she was able to deal with the situation without panicking. Ballet Connection's wealth of experience and know-how was very reassuring and helpful, making this a truly enjoyable study abroad experience. Thank you very much.